How Many Attacks Can a Pokémon Use?

The answer to this question depends on the specific context of which Pokémon game or format you are referring to. In Pokémon GO, a Pokémon typically has access to two attacks: one Fast Attack and one Charged Attack. In the main series video games, a Pokémon can know up to four moves at a time, but only uses one per turn. In the Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG), a Pokémon can use only one attack per turn. Therefore, the number of attacks a Pokémon can use varies widely depending on the game.

Pokémon GO Attack Limits

In Pokémon GO, your Pokémon have a simplified attack system compared to other Pokémon games. Each Pokémon has one Fast Attack and one Charged Attack.

Fast Attacks

• These attacks are executed by tapping the screen and are the primary way to generate energy.
• Fast Attacks are used repetitively during battles.

Charged Attacks

• Charged Attacks require stored energy generated by using Fast Attacks.
• You unleash Charged Attacks by tapping the screen when the energy bar is full.

Additional Charged Attack

• You can teach a Pokémon a second Charged Attack by spending Stardust and Candy.
• This doesn’t mean a Pokémon can use two attacks in a single turn, but it provides strategic flexibility.

Main Series Video Game Attack Limits

In the main series video games, such as Pokémon Sword and Shield or Pokémon Scarlet and Violet, the combat system allows more tactical depth.

Four-Move Limit

• Pokémon can know up to four moves at a time. This is a fundamental rule, established to balance gameplay and prevent strategic overload.
• If a Pokémon learns a fifth move, you must replace one of the existing four.

One Attack per Turn

• During battle, a Pokémon can use only one move per turn.
• The choice of move is crucial, taking into account type matchups, status conditions, and strategic advantages.

Abilities and Items

• Some Abilities and items can indirectly influence the number of effective actions a Pokémon can take, but they don’t violate the one-move-per-turn rule.
• For example, an Ability might allow a Pokémon to move first or inflict a status condition that affects the opponent.

Pokémon Trading Card Game (TCG) Attack Limits

The Pokémon TCG has its own set of rules, distinct from the video games.

One Attack per Turn

• In the Pokémon TCG, a Pokémon can only perform one attack per turn.
• This attack concludes your turn, passing the initiative to your opponent.

Energy Requirements

• Each attack requires a certain amount and type of Energy cards attached to the Pokémon.
• Managing Energy is a crucial aspect of TCG strategy.

Special Cards and Abilities

• Certain cards, like the Fluffy Barrage card, allow a Pokémon to attack twice in a single turn under specific conditions (e.g., knocking out the opponent’s Active Pokémon with the first attack).
• These are exceptions, not the standard rule.

FAQs About Pokémon Attacks

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the complexities of Pokémon attacks across different games:

1. Can a Pokémon in Pokémon GO use more than two attacks in a battle?

No, a Pokémon in Pokémon GO can know two attacks (one Fast and one Charged), or three (one Fast and two Charged) if you unlock a second charged attack. However, it can still only use one attack per turn. The additional Charged Attack provides tactical flexibility, not an extra attack per turn.

2. How do I choose which attack to use in Pokémon GO?

You use the Fast Attack by tapping the screen repeatedly. The Charged Attack becomes available when its energy bar is full, and you activate it by tapping the screen when prompted. Having two Charged Attacks requires strategic timing of which charged attack would be best in that particular scenario.

3. Can Pokémon in the main series games forget moves?

Yes, Pokémon in the main series games can forget moves. If a Pokémon learns a fifth move, one of the existing four must be forgotten. This is a permanent decision unless you use specific items or visit a Move Reminder NPC.

4. Are there any moves that allow a Pokémon to attack twice in one turn in the main series games?

Some moves and abilities can effectively create a double attack, but they don’t allow the Pokémon to use two different moves in the same turn. For example, the Ability Skill Link guarantees that multi-strike moves like Bullet Seed hit the maximum number of times.

5. What determines which Pokémon attacks first in the main series games?

The Speed stat of each Pokémon largely determines who attacks first. However, moves with increased priority (like Quick Attack) will go first, regardless of Speed. Also, some Abilities, such as Prankster, can increase the priority of certain moves.

6. How does paralysis affect the number of attacks a Pokémon can use?

Paralysis has several effects, including halving the Pokémon’s Speed stat and having a 25% chance of preventing the Pokémon from attacking during its turn. If a Pokémon is fully paralyzed, it cannot attack that turn.

7. Can a Pokémon use an item and attack in the same turn in the main series games?

Yes, a Pokémon can use an item and attack in the same turn. The Trainer selects the item and the move they want to use.

8. In the TCG, can a Pokémon use its Ability and attack in the same turn?

In most cases, yes. Many Abilities can be used once during your turn. However, some Abilities may have specific conditions or limitations, and some prevent attacks. Check the card text for specific rules.

9. How does energy work in the Pokémon TCG?

Each attack requires a certain amount and type of Energy cards attached to the Pokémon. You can attach one Energy card per turn. Managing Energy is a crucial part of TCG strategy.

10. Can a Pokémon retreat and attack in the same turn in the Pokémon TCG?

No, a Pokémon cannot retreat and attack in the same turn. Retreating concludes your turn.

11. Are there cards in the TCG that allow a Pokémon to attack multiple times?

Yes, some cards allow a Pokémon to attack multiple times in a turn, such as cards like Fluffy Barrage, but these are exceptions to the standard rule.

12. What happens if my Pokémon in the TCG runs out of HP?

If your Pokémon runs out of HP, it is Knocked Out. You must discard that Pokémon and any cards attached to it (like Energy cards). Your opponent takes Prize cards based on the rules of the specific card or game format.

13. Why can’t Pokémon learn more than four moves in the main series games?

The explanation is that they can’t remember that many words, and too many moves would confuse them.

14. Can a Trainer use multiple Trainer cards in one turn in the Pokémon TCG?

Yes, a Trainer can use multiple Trainer cards in one turn.

15. Where can I learn more about strategic gameplay and the learning benefits of playing games like Pokémon?

You can find more information and resources on strategic gameplay and the educational benefits of games at the Games Learning Society, visiting their website at GamesLearningSociety.org. They offer valuable insights into the cognitive and social skills developed through gaming.